The Sal Sciandra Memorial Foundation was created to assist individuals across our community in navigating through the challenges that prevent them from pursuing career opportunities in the construction trades.
There are many unforeseen roadblocks for urban and rural youth who are interested in pursuing a career in the “skilled” construction trades. These include a lack of access to transportation, the cost of childcare and other societal roadblocks.
Unforeseen circumstances such as a sudden illness, unforeseen car repair and other everyday life challenges that come up unexpectedly can further complicate such a pursuit.
We also know that college isn’t for everyone anymore, especially with the burden of the cost leaving many with student loans that can take years to pay back. Further, many young people go on to earn a college degree only to come out of the experience with no clear career path.
The construction trades offer good paying jobs with excellent fringe benefits, including health care and retirement plans. This is especially true for careers in the “skilled” trades, such as electricians, steamfitters, plumbers, sheet metal workers and operating engineers among others. Most skilled trades have union apprenticeship programs that provide a career path directly to the construction industry.
At a time when there is a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople not only across the United States, but also in western New York, a career in the construction trades can be professionally and financially rewarding.
Careers in the skilled trades create family sustaining jobs and help build a foundation of economic sustainability on Main Streets in both urban and rural communities.
The Sal Sciandra Memorial Foundation is more than just providing these individuals with financial support, but also providing guidance in finding solutions to those challenges that hinder this pursuit of a rewarding career in the construction trades.
Mission:
To provide financial and other assistance to underprivileged youth on their path to earning a career in the construction industry.
Vision: Create pathways for youth to become skilled tradespeople who contribute to the economic viability of urban and rural communities across western New York.